“Baseball started in America and we are trying to catch up with American baseball,” said Hara through an interpreter.

“And we are trying to surpass American baseball. That would be the biggest goal . . . to catch up with America and go beyond.”

Venezuela advances

Former Padre Ramon Hernandez trotted home with a big run following a 10-minute delay, and now he and his Venezuela teammates are bound for Los Angeles and the WBC semifinals. Hernandez was awarded a home run following a replay review, and Venezuela beat Puerto Rico 2-0 to secure a spot in the final four. Puerto Rico will face the U.S. tonight, with the loser eliminated and the winner advancing.